St Aidan’s High School have welcomed a new headteacher - nine months after the sad passing of much loved Tony Rooney.

Claire Connelly was recently appointed as the new leader of the school after working as the acting head for the last 19 months.

Mrs Connelly, who recently served as the depute headteacher in Our Lady’s High, Cumbernauld, said: “I am absolutely delighted to have been appointed as the permanent headteacher of St Aidan’s High.

“Over the past 19 months it has been a privilege to lead the school community and I have very much enjoyed getting to know pupils, staff, parents, parishes and members of the wider community.

“St Aidan’s High is a wonderful school with a very strong, positive ethos.

“It has a very proud history of success.

“I am delighted with the progress we have made regarding the attainment and achievement of our young people over my time as acting headteacher.”

Ms Connelly stepped into help the school after former headteacher Tony Rooney took ill.

Much loved Mr Rooney passed away last September after suffering a short illness that had forced him to leave his position at the school after 11 years.

Speaking at the time of his death Mrs Connelly, said: “The entire school community was deeply saddened at the news of the death of Mr Rooney.

Mr Rooney was a committed and highly respected headteacher of the school who had been in post since 2006.

“The official motto of St Aidan’s High School is “Optima Petenda” – to be the best.

“However, Mr Rooney’s vision for the school was also based on another motto – ‘No child will be anonymous’.

“As headteacher, Mr Rooney supported young people, their families and staff through challenges in their lives.

“His wisdom and guidance was very much appreciated. He will be much missed by all members of the school community.”

Looking to the future, Mrs Connelly said she is very fortunate enough to work with an excellent team of staff at the school.

She added: “From the teachers to the finance assistant, support and classroom assistants, office staff, technicians, librarian, careers advisor, janitors, kitchen staff and cleaners, I am looking forward to continuing to work with them all.

“Also the wider community in developing our young people in their faith and supporting them in achieving their potential.”